Hello! have you had a chance to change the tie rod ends, I've been wanting to do the same, changing to a half ton axle is what I'm considering doing myself, the 1/2 ton and 3/4 ton measure the same.

http://s219.photobucket.com/user/ratamugrosa/library/1952%20Chevy%20Monster%20truck

http://s219.photobucket.com/user/ratamugrosa/library/1954%201ton%20wrecker?sort=3&page=1